Local 107 History
In early 1893, an idea was conceived among several plumbers and gasfitters in the Louisville area to apply for membership into the United Association of Plumbers, Gasfitters and Steamfitters of the United States and Canada. In May of 1893, a charter was issued by the United Association and we were given the title Louisville Plumbers and Gasfitters Local 107.
The present membership is grateful for the perseverance of these early members who kept Local 107 intact. They guided our organization through many rough times which threatened the early existence of our Local Union.
Before this Local Union was organized, the wages ranged from $1.50 to $3.00 per day and these were ten to twelve hour days. After Local 107 was organized and became active, the membership was successful in obtaining better working conditions including a higher rate of pay, a shorter working day, and better working conditions. The skill and craftsmanship to the signatory shops throughout the years accomplished this.
Local l07 grew from its original 16 founders to our current and growing membership of 530. We are proud of the fact that there are 219 members who have been with the Local Union from 25 to 65 years.
Our Apprenticeship Program, in accordance with the Federal Apprenticeship Bureau and the U.A. Apprenticeship Program, continues to be a facility, not only for the training of apprentices, but for the advance training of Journeymen and women in the Plumbing Industry.
Local 107 was proud of its Health & Welfare Fund established August 1, 1954. From very humble beginnings, the Fund is now the forefront of those funds throughout the United States that provide health and welfare coverage for members and families of labor organizations.
After providing for the needs of its members and their dependents, the Local was successful in starting the Plumbers Local 107 Pension Fund on August 1, 1962. This fund, while presently paying pensions to retired members of our Local Union, has become a multimillion dollar fund with ever increasing assets to provide respectable pensions for all retirees for years to come.
Local 107 was proud of its members and officers, and still today, we feel we have the very best craftspeople anywhere in the country - trained, well-mannered, and loyal U.A. members.
Many compliments have come from other Local Unions of the United Association for the high quality of skill and workmanship that our membership show when working in their jurisdiction.
Much of the sanitary regulations, which we have in the State of Kentucky, were enacted as a direct result of the efforts of Plumbers Local 107 trying to promote the health and welfare of the citizens of our state and keep our plumbing code strong.
Our softball team is recognized as one of the most competitive in the region and has placed 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectfully in the Annual U.A. Tournament held each summer in Cincinnati as well as many league championships in the Louisville area.
Every member of this local should be proud to belong to such a fine organization that provides our state. country, and International Union the best qualified and skilled members at the craft that they have chosen - PLUMBING.